Can stress affect oral health? You may not realize it, but stress can cause lasting damage to your teeth and gums.
If you need a top-quality general dentist in Tampa, call the team at Westchase Smiles Institute. They can guide you through the steps to remedy oral problems caused by stress.
Mouth Ulcers
Ongoing stress compromises your immune system and can result in mouth ulcers, also called cold sores or canker sores.
Mouth ulcers form on the lips and gums and can last up to two weeks. During that time, they are painful and may bleed. Once a mouth ulcer appears, the best thing to do is apply numbing medicine to reduce discomfort.
Reducing daily stress will prevent the likelihood of developing mouth ulcers.
Dry Mouth
Everyone experiences dry mouth for one reason or another. Dry mouth may have an innocent cause, like public speaking, or a more serious cause, such as chronic stress or anxiety.
The purpose of saliva is to eliminate bacteria and clear away small particles of food in the mouth. When your mouth lacks an appropriate amount of saliva, you can develop tooth decay and gum disease.
Gum Disease
When chronic stress weakens your immune system, your body can’t fight off infection the way it should. During stressful life events, oral hygiene is low on the priority list. Poor oral hygiene habits open the door to oral infections.
Poor oral hygiene can have lasting negative effects, resulting in tooth loss. Prioritizing oral care in times of stress will prevent extensive damage to your teeth and gums.
Jaw Clenching
Can stress affect oral health? Your sore jaw says yes.
Jaw clenching is a silent assassin of your oral health and can happen when you feel stressed during the day or at night while you sleep.
Clenching and grinding can cause headaches and may cause your teeth to wear away prematurely. Your teeth may even crack or chip due to jaw clenching. Your dentist can fit you for a mouth guard to prevent nighttime clenching and grinding.
Improving Oral Health
Brushing for just two minutes twice a day can do wonders for your oral health until your next dental cleaning.
Taking extra care to lower your stress through daily habits can help your oral and overall health. Some proven ways to lower stress include:
- Keeping a journal.
- Forming a regular exercise routine.
- Practicing daily meditation.
- Eating nourishing food.
- Taking a yoga class.
- Listening to your favorite song.
- Confiding in a friend.
The best way to maintain healthy teeth and gums is through regular dental care.
Dentistry in Tampa, FL
Can stress affect oral health? It can in many different ways. The easiest way to begin restoring your oral health is learning how to brush your teeth effectively. The next step is to make an appointment for an oral evaluation.
Westchase Smiles Institute is here to provide gentle, effective dentistry. Contact the team to schedule an appointment.
